Mayor Mark Jamieson as Chair of the Sunshine Coast Economic Futures Board today released the Board’s first annual report on the implementation of the Sunshine Coast Regional Economic Development Strategy 2013-2033 (REDS).

The report, which is for the period 1 October 2013 – 30 June 2014, identifies the activities that have been delivered since the launch of REDS in September 2013.

As part of its role, the Board is required to present a report each year on the region’s progress in implementing the REDS.“The actions delivered in the first year have included have laid some important foundations for the region’s economic growth and community prosperity,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“Council has introduced its new planning scheme, which incorporates the principles of the REDS, and finalised the development scheme for the Maroochydore Priority Development Area.

“The education and research industry has also moved to establish a Sunshine Coast Education, Training and Industry Group which is now progressing four key projects to advance sector coordination, promotion and infrastructure initiatives.

“Council has also engaged the Royal Bank of Canada as its commercial advisor to develop the most appropriate model to attract private investment in the Sunshine Coast airport expansion,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“Securing private investment in this significant infrastructure project for the region is critical, so Council has engaged one of the best in the business to advise on how this should be done.”

Moving into Year 2, the Board will place a strong emphasis on the Capital Investment actions in the REDS, given their significance in transforming the region’s economy and providing the foundation for establishing more enduring employment opportunities locally.

“We will also be working closely with the taskforces that are developing industry and investment plans for the seven high-value industries, so that these important plans provide the basis for local business and industry growth and encourage new businesses to invest in the region,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“The Board will also be contributing to the development of new marketing and online strategies to promote the region’s competitive advantages to potential investors and priority markets.”